In recent years, the artistic director had seen the new musical at Broadway. She is now directing the regional premiere at New Stage. The performances will continue until June 16. The comedy/musician Steve Martin, and Edie Brickell, singer/songwriter, created “Bright Star”. It is a celebration and celebration of storytelling. It was nominated five times for the Tony Awards, including the 2016 Drama Desk Award in Outstanding Music and the 2016 Outer Critics Circle Awards as Best Musical and Best Score. This musical is the sequel to the smash hit “Hamilton”. Cast members claim that the musical is set in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains during the 1940s with flashbacks back to the 1920s. It was inspired by an actual event. “Bright Star”‘s often sunny spirit, emotive songs, and infectious music are a winning combination. Sari Koppel, originally from New York, plays the role of Alice Murphy. This part is a pivotal one that takes her from a carefree and girlish teen to a polished literary editor in her 30s. Koppel says that it is a great challenge for actors to be able have two distinct time periods. Koppel falls somewhere in the middle of this age range. “Wonderful for my, because each age feels a little more tangible.” Alice, 16, is a person I can approach with honesty. Alice, 36, is a driven individual with a fun-loving spirit and a mystery from her history. “It’s an amazing playground for actors, in terms of roles.” “Bright Star” is a story of love, forgiveness, redemption and comedy. Oklahoman Tyler Bellmon plays the role of Billy Cane. He is a young soldier who returns home from World War II. His literary ambitions led him to Alice’s office at The Magazine. Bellmon said that the character has heart and humor, but also a certain naivete, which resonates with audiences. He says, “I am a comedian at heart, but love playing the honesty through comedy.” John Maxwell, a New Stage veteran, calls his part as Billy’s father, Daddy Cane, “frightfully simple” — it was just a matter grabbing an old corduroy shirt out of his closet, and then settling in to the familiar comfort and kindness of it all. He says, “The beauty of this entire piece is its naivete.” It’s kind of old-school, in a certain way. It’s much more fun to let go of the controls and just feel it. “Daddy Cane is not like that.” Kathlyn Arcemont plays Margo. She is an old friend of Billy’s whose optimism and hopefulness, as well as her compassion, are the musical’s core values. She says she enjoyed the exploration of her first love interest role. Maxwell states that Jackson audiences will love it because of the wonderful storytelling. It’s great music. And, it’s all-affirming redemptive. Even through the pain, redemption is the ultimate. “It’s not a depressing experience.” Reynolds and he expect that literary accolades will be a hit in a state with such a rich heritage. “You have an old hick in the shed who is reading Carson McCullers. “… Someone from the South would immediately understand and recognize this.” Reynolds also loved Bright Star’s connection to home, with its themes of finding your home and returning to it. “I knew it right away. This show might not be available in other locations. She says that this show is at New Stage Theatre. Koppel says, “It’s all about the heart of people.” This is evident through the music. Folk music is about that. Folk music is people’s music. Carol Joy Sparkman, the music director, plays the banjo, fiddle and guitar. “Bright Star” is a story that’s simple, musical, and devoid of spectacle. It takes you to the emotional epicenter, the same route that a strong country song follows. This will bring you joy, laughter, tears, and pangs. Maxwell said, “It’s a powerful play in its simplicity.” New Stage Theatre’s production is being held over due to popular demand and sold out shows. The new performances will be at 7:30 p.m. on June 13-15, and 2 p.m. on June 16. Tickets are $35, with discounts for seniors, students and groups, at www.newstagetheatre.com, 601-948-3531 and the theater box office at 1001 Carlisle St.